ARCON unveils October 23 2026 date for expanded special recognition awards

The Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) has fixed October 23, 2026, for the maiden expanded edition of its Special Recognition Awards (ASRA), as the regulator moves to honour individuals, brands and organisations contributing to the growth and professionalism of Nigeria’s advertising industry.

The awards, themed “An Evening of Many Honours,” will recognise outstanding contributions across four categories: Advertising Compliance, Public Sector, Private Sector and Individual Recognition.

Speaking at a media briefing, ARCON Director-General, Dr Olalekan Fadolapo, said the initiative was conceived to encourage compliance with advertising regulations while celebrating individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to the marketing communications ecosystem.

Fadolapo said the Council decided to expand the awards beyond compliance because of the evolving nature of the industry.

“Beyond that, we feel strongly that just recognising compliance with advertising standards may not be enough,” he said, stressing the need to acknowledge broader contributions to the development of the sector.

Chairman of the ASRA Planning Committee, Yinka Adebayo, said the awards would undergo a rigorous selection process involving nominations, eligibility screening, technical assessment, public voting, jury review and final ratification.

He said the Advertising Compliance category would recognise advertisers, brands and practitioners demonstrating exemplary adherence to advertising standards and responsible communication.

The Individual Recognition category will honour industry pioneers and professionals whose contributions have shaped various segments of the marketing communications industry. Posthumous awards will also be presented to deserving pioneers.

Other honours include the Industry Lifetime Contribution Awards and Distinguished Service Recognition Awards for professionals with sustained contributions to the industry’s development and regulation.

President of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN), Lanre Adisa, said recognising exceptional contributions would improve the visibility of the industry while motivating practitioners to maintain high standards despite economic challenges.